Embracing Dry January: How To Make Cannabis Infused Cocktails

Embracing Dry January: How To Make Cannabis Infused Cocktails 

• Embrace Dry January with a twist by introducing cannabis-infused cocktails, adding excitement and variety to your alcohol-free month. 
• Crafting cannabis cocktails is as simple as making lemonade, requiring no special equipment, just a splash of curiosity and creativity. 
• Cannabis cocktails can be creatively made using either tinctures or canna syrup, allowing for a range of flavors and potencies to suit any preference. 

Dry January is here again, the time when many of us hit the pause button on alcohol. But hey, pressing pause doesn't mean we can't still have some fun, right? Enter the scene: infused cannabis cocktails. They're here to keep the good times rolling while your wine glasses stay on the shelf. It's all about swapping out the booze for something a bit more green and just as exciting. 

Who said Dry January has to be all about what you're missing out on? With cannabis cocktails, you're not just ditching the alcohol; you're diving into a whole new world of flavors. It's less about saying 'no' and more about saying 'hello' to fun, unique drinks that leave you feeling great and your taste buds dancing. 

It's time we flip the script on the phrase 'high and dry'. This January, leave it to cannabis tinctures to turn it into something positive. 

So, what's the deal with these drinks? Imagine all the cocktails you love, but with a twist of cannabis. Whether it's a splash of tincture or a dash of cannabis syrup, these drinks mix up the usual with something unexpected. And the best part? They're super easy to make. If you can mix a lemonade, you're more than ready to whip up a cannabis cocktail. 

If the thought of making these has you picturing a mad scientist's lab, don't worry. Creating a cannabis-infused cocktail is as straightforward as making any regular drink. You don't need fancy equipment or a degree in mixology. Just a bit of curiosity and a willingness to try something new! 

What Is Dry January? 

​​Dry January is an annual movement where people choose to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year. It's seen as a way to detox after the indulgences of the holiday season, reset the body, and often, reassess one's relationship with alcohol. Participants might use this time to focus on their health, save money, or simply challenge themselves to a month of sobriety. It's a period of reflection and, for many, an opportunity to explore alternatives to their usual alcoholic beverages. 

The Rise of Canna-Cocktails 

As the new year unfolds, a significant shift is bubbling up in the beverage world. The rise of canna-cocktails marks a move from traditional alcoholic beverages to their intriguing cannabis-infused counterparts. This isn't just a trend; it's a revolution in relaxation and socializing, with a growing number of enthusiasts choosing to stir up their routine with something a little greener. 

Gone are the days when your only options for a relaxing nightcap or a social drink were limited to what's in the alcohol aisle. Canna-cocktails are stepping into the spotlight, offering a whole new way to unwind. People are increasingly swapping their beers and spirits for these innovative concoctions, drawn to their unique qualities and the different kind of buzz they provide. It's not about getting high; it's about enjoying a more nuanced, customizable experience. 

A recent survey from CivicScience sheds light on how people are approaching Dry January. The poll revealed that more than a fifth of adults opting out of alcohol for the month are turning to cannabis or CBD products. Specifically, 21% of those participating in Dry January this year are replacing booze with marijuana, CBD, and other cannabis products, more than any other substitutes included in the survey. This indicates a significant trend in how people are choosing to explore alternatives to alcohol, seeking options that align with their lifestyle and wellness goals. 

What Are Cannabis Infused Cocktails? 

Cannabis cocktails are inventive beverages that blend the dynamic flavors of traditional cocktails with the infused properties of cannabis. Think of them as your usual drink with an herbal twist. These concoctions typically involve non-alcoholic bases—like juices, sodas, and teas—elevated with cannabis in the form of tinctures or syrups. They're designed to deliver the pleasurable aspects of a cocktail experience, with the added therapeutic potential of cannabis, whether it’s for relaxation, a mood boost, or to indulge in a new taste sensation. These drinks are as varied as they are creative, allowing you to personalize your sipping experience to your mood and preference. From a canna-lemonade on a sunny afternoon to a warm, infused apple cider on a chilly evening, cannabis cocktails offer a novel way to enjoy yourself! 

Are Cannabis Cocktails a Good Replacement for Alcohol? 

So why are people preferring cannabis-infused cocktails to regular alcoholic drinks? The reasons are as varied as the cocktails themselves: 

• Safety: Cannabis-infused drinks provide a controlled experience. With precise dosing, you're in the driver's seat, able to tailor your intake to suit your comfort level, without the overindulgence that often comes with alcohol. 
• Health: For many, the health aspect is a big draw. Cannabis cocktails can offer the relaxation or buzz you're seeking, without the hangover or the long-term health risks associated with regular alcohol consumption. 
• Experience: Then there's the experience itself. Cannabis offers a different kind of buzz, one that's often described as more mellow and body-focused. Canna-cocktails provide a unique way to explore these effects, combining them with delicious flavors that make the experience all the more enjoyable. 

As we continue to navigate this new era of beverages, one thing is clear: canna-cocktails are more than just a passing fad. They represent a shift in how we think about drinking, offering an alternative that's safer, often healthier, and provides a whole new world of experiences. 

How to Make Cannabis-Infused Drinks? 

If you're ready to shake things up and learn how to make THC and cannabis-infused drinks, you're in for a treat. These concoctions are perfect for sipping and chilling, and they're surprisingly simple to make. Whether it's a THC-rich libation or a non-psychoactive cannabis creation, we've got the lowdown on how to craft these herbal delights. 

The two ace methods—tinctures and canna syrup—are here to guide you through the process. They're the secret to transforming any beverage into a cannabis-infused masterpiece. And the best part? We've got a nifty ​recipe for crafting your own canna syrup right at home. 

Tinctures: Your Go-To for Precision and Potency 

Tinctures are the go-to for controlled, precise dosing in your homemade ​cannabis drinks. They are essentially cannabis extracts that have been concentrated in a liquid form. Here’s what you need to know: 

• Precision: The dropper included with most tinctures allows you to measure out your dosage in milliliters, giving you full control over how much THC or CBD ends up in your drink. 
• Fast-Acting: Because tinctures are concentrated, they can be absorbed quickly by your body, making them a swift-acting addition to beverages. 
• Flavorful Versatility: While tinctures do carry the earthy tones of cannabis, they come in a variety of flavors and strains. 
• Tips for Use: To use a tincture, start with a drop or two in your drink, stir well, and wait for a bit to gauge the effects. Remember, start low and slow, you can always add more if needed. 

Canna Syrup: Sweetness with a Kick 

Canna syrup is for those who want to sweeten the deal. It’s made by infusing simple syrup with cannabis, and here’s what makes it stand out: 

• Custom Potency: When you make your own canna syrup, you get to decide how strong it is. A little cannabis goes a long way, so you can create a syrup that fits your exact preference for each batch. 
• Extended Shelf Life: Properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your canna syrup can last just as long as any other syrup, making it a convenient standby mixer. 
• Tips for Use: When using canna syrup, treat it as you would any sweetener. It's perfect for sweet cocktails, iced coffees, or even as a drizzle over a fruit salad for an extra zing. 

By mastering these two methods, you'll open up a world of possibilities for your at-home drink menu. Tinctures and canna syrup are not only efficient ways to infuse cannabis into your beverages but also allow for a depth of customization in flavor and THC potency that's hard to match with pre-made products. So, get ready to mix, infuse, and enjoy your very own THC infused cocktail. 

Refreshing Cannabis Cocktail Recipes 

With Dry January in full swing, why not spice up your THC infused cocktail routine with some cannabis-infused flair? We're keeping spirits high with some simple yet sensational recipes for cannabis cocktails that are sure to be crowd-pleasers. Let's dive into the recipes that mix classic flavors with the contemporary zest of cannabis. 

Canna-Lemonade 

Nothing says "chill out" quite like a glass of Canna-Lemonade. This easy-to-make refresher blends sweet strawberries with a tart lemon twist, all uplifted by a splash of Doctor Solomon’s Tincture. It's a simple blend, blend, serve process that'll have you sipping on a cannabis-infused classic in no time. 

Infused Apple Cider 

When the chill of winter nips at your nose, warm up with our Infused Apple Cider. It’s a hug in a mug, complete with the spices of the season and the soothing touch of cannabis. Whether you're simmering a single serving or a batch for friends, this recipe is perfect for those cozy evenings in. Get ready to garnish and glam up your cider with all the trimmings of a traditional apple cider, plus a little something extra. 

Citrus Mimosa 

Brighten your brunch with a splash of sunshine in the form of our Citrus Mimosa. This vibrant beverage combines the crispness of fresh citrus juice like grapefruit, blood orange, and tangerine with the tang of lemon-lime, all bubbled up with sparkling water and a hint of cannabis for that extra sparkle. Garnish with a twist of citrus zest and a sprig of mint to create the ultimate refreshment that says "cheers" to new beginnings. 

L'Orange Spritz 

The L'Orange Spritz is an ode to the classic, with a citrusy cannabis kick. It’s a zesty, sparkling treat that's just the right amount of sweet and just the right amount of spirited, garnished with a fresh mint leaf for that extra pizzazz. 

Make It: 2oz Orange Juice, 2oz squeezed Lemon/Lime juice, 1 Dash Orange Bitters*, Top with your favorite lemon sparkling water (*Optional - Orange bitters to add depth and a semblance of that old time cocktail); Garnish with a pinch of orange zest and a mint leaf

Afternoon Delight 

Say hello to the Afternoon Delight, your new favorite tropical escape. This drink is a vibrant mix of pineapple and grapefruit juices, sweetened by agave and enlivened by a bubbly splash of club soda. The chile-seasoned rim gives it an edge that'll wake up all your senses. 

Make it: 2oz Pineapple Juice, 2oz Grapefruit juice, 1 Tablespoon Agave Syrup, top with Club Soda {Tip: Spice your glass rim with your favorite chile seasoning}

Fruitcake Cocktail 

Indulge in the unique Fruitcake Cocktail, a delightful mix of chilled black tea and tart cranberry juice, sweetened with blueberry preserves and topped with maraschino cherries. For a fizzy twist, add a splash of blueberry or cranberry sparkling water. This cocktail is a charming nod to its namesake, offering a captivating blend of flavors in every sip. 

Make it: 6-8oz Chilled Black Tea, 2oz Cranberry Juice, 1.5 Teaspoon Blueberry Preserves; Top with 2 maraschino cherries {For a sparkling version use your favorite blueberry or cranberry sparkling water}

Best Tinctures to Try for Cannabis-Infused Cocktails

When it comes to crafting the perfect canna cocktail, selecting the right tincture or infuser is crucial. Each brings its unique flavor and potency to your beverage, allowing for a customized experience. We've curated a list of reliable tinctures from Dr. Solomon's, ideal for those looking to dabble in cannabis mixology. 

Doze

The Doze tincture is perfect for those who want to craft a cocktail with a calming finish. With an equal mix of CBN and THC, it's designed to bring about a relaxed and pain-free state, ideal for a soothing, sleepy end to your day. Its earthy undertones can beautifully complement the rich flavors of a berry mocktail or add depth to a citrusy evening drink. 

Rescue

If you're looking to concoct a cocktail that provides a potent THC kick, Rescue is your go-to. Crafted to offer relief and a state of blissful relaxation, its robust profile is a great match for bolder flavors. Incorporate it into a spicy cherry cola or a zesty ginger limeade to create a comforting, flavor-packed experience. 

20:1 Unwind

Unwind is a serene escape in a bottle, offering a high CBD ratio with a whisper of THC. Designed for those seeking substantial relief without a strong high, this tincture is a perfect companion for crafting mellow, relaxing beverages. Its subtle influence is excellent for enhancing cocktails with an herbal or floral profile, adding a layer of tranquility without overpowering the drink's flavor. Whether you're creating a refreshing mint cucumber cooler or a delicate rosewater spritzer, Unwind adds a soothing touch, making it an ideal choice for a laid-back afternoon or a gentle evening relaxer. 

1:1 Restore

Restore strikes a perfect balance between CBD and THC, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both the calming effects of CBD and the gentle euphoria of THC. This tincture is wonderfully versatile, enhancing a wide range of cocktails with a smooth and nuanced experience. Whether you're stirring up a tangy, citrus-infused beverage or a sweet, herb-laden elixir, Restore adds a harmonious touch. It's designed to bring a sense of relaxation and relief, perfect for unwinding after a long day or as a treat to yourself anytime you need a little pick-me-up. 

Perfect Strain Pairings for Your Canna Cocktails 

Let's jazz up your Dry January with some perfectly paired strains for those delectable cannabis-infused cocktails you're shaking up. Here's how you can match your favorite strains to your mocktails, ensuring every sip is as enjoyable as it is unique. 

Canna-Lemonade + Animal Face 

Pair the sharp, tangy flavors of Canna-Lemonade with the Animal Face strain. Known for its unique citrusy, sugary, and nutty flavors with hints of earth and pine, this indica-dominant strain is perfect for unwinding. It will melt away your cares and stress, adding a relaxing touch to the lively lemonade, enhancing the zest with its complex aroma. 

Infused Apple Cider + Brownie Scout 

Match your cozy Infused Apple Cider with the rich, earthy tones of Brownie Scout. This potent indica, known for its intense initial surge followed by a tranquil trance, carries pungent notes of spice, chocolate, and earth. It complements the cider's warm spices perfectly, deepening the comforting essence of your drink with its powerful, relaxing effects. 

Citrus Mimosa + Durban Zkittles 

Brighten your brunch with a Citrus Mimosa paired with Durban Zkittles. This energizing sativa-dominant strain, featuring a strong lemon profile layered with sweet-tart fruitiness, enhances the mimosa's vibrant citrus flavors. The uplifting and energetic effects of Durban Zkittles will add a cheerful buzz to your beverage, making it an even more delightful choice. 

L'Orange Spritz + L’Orange 

The L'Orange Spritz finds its perfect partner in the L’Orange strain. With sweet earth and strong orange-slice overtones, this sativa-dominant hybrid complements the spritz's citrusy notes, enhancing the drink's profile with bright and funky vibes. The uplifting and focused effects will keep you dancing through your day and night. 

Afternoon Delight + Afternoon Delight #7

Another name match with Afternoon Delight! For a truly tropical experience, pair the Afternoon Delight cocktail with its namesake strain, Afternoon Delight #7. This balanced and blissful hybrid features notes of floral and citrus with a subtle layer of earthy diesel, enhancing the drink's sunny, laid-back vibe with a harmonious blend of flavors and a relaxing yet euphoric effect. 

Fruitcake Cocktail + Jack Herer 

Complement the complex, fruity profile of the Fruitcake Cocktail with Jack Herer. This mind-elevating sativa-dominant classic, with a sweet-tart lemon-berry nose, adds a bright, energetic dimension to the cocktail's berry flavors. The invigorating, creative buzz of Jack Herer enriches each sip with an invigorating, flavorful experience. 

Enjoy your Dry January with these delightful flavors and elevated moments, and cheers to a month filled with creativity and relaxation! 

Whether you're a cannabis connoisseur or just looking to shake things up this Dry January, cannabis-infused cocktails are for you. They're about adding a little extra sparkle to your month and making those chill nights even chiller. So, let's raise our glasses to a Dry January that's anything but dull, filled with new tastes, good vibes, and plenty of reasons to smile. Cheers!